Operator Mechanic

General Definition of Work

Highly skilled technical work in a combined cycle power generation facility. This position is responsible for the operation of turbines, generators, high-pressure heat recovery steam generators (HRSG), and associated equipment in an electric power generating plant. Prepare heat recovery steam generators and related equipment for operation. Places HRSG, turbines, generators, and related equipment into service and removes from service as required. Make process adjustments to HRSG's and generators as necessary to operate the plant at optimum efficiency. Reports to the Assistant Plant Manager and takes day-to-day direction from the Lead Operator/Mechanic. Performs other duties as required.


Qualification Requirements

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Essential Functions

Performs thorough inspection of HRSG, generators, auxiliary equipment, and plant grounds during each shift.

Controls and distributes power according to generating capacity and system demands as determined by the FMPP dispatcher.

Complies with all applicable North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards requirements, Southeastern Electric Reliability Council (SERC) reliability standards requirements, and all FMPA reliability standards.

Understands and controls plant breakers/busses and coordinates with Balancing Authority/Dispatch personnel to allow rapid safe recovery in the event of a power blackout.

Operates complex automatic and/or manual control systems of HRSG's, turbines, generator and auxiliary equipment, including the plant distributed control system.

Understands and controls various types of generator governors and voltage regulators.

Assists the Lead Operator/Mechanic with tagout/lockout, work permits, and confined space entry permits, and other tasks as assigned.

Inspects, maintains, starts and stops pumps, fans & motors as directed or required by the Lead Operator/Mechanic.

Makes repairs and adjustments of machinery and equipment as directed or required by the Lead Operator/Mechanic.

Observes and records readings on plant equipment.

Maintains and compiles daily records of generation and operational data utilizing PC programs Microsoft Excel, PI Historian, Bently Nevada System 1, and all related specialty computer software.

Keeps assigned area clean and orderly, and performs other duties, as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• considerable knowledge of operation of HRSG, distributed control system, various types of generator governors and voltage control systems, turbine-generators, condensers, pumps, motors and other auxiliary equipment pertaining to the operation of a power plant.
• thorough knowledge of the power plant systems and operational procedures.
• considerable knowledge of the principles of electrical power generation
• ability to respond quickly and correctly to unusual conditions and emergencies.
• considerable ability to synchronize generators.
• considerable ability to follow oral and written instructions and to prepare written and computerized reports.
• considerable knowledge of plant breakers and busses.
• considerable knowledge of the continuous emissions monitoring system and related equipment.
• considerable knowledge of water chemistry: taking water samples and adding chemicals.
• ability to perform complex maintenance tasks during periods when unit(s) are off-line.
• ability to work and function while working various rotating shifts.
• considerable ability to communicate effectively and perform work as a team member in a team environment.

Special Requirements

May require announced or unannounced overtime work and the ability to respond to call-out work during non-working hours or emergencies. Must obtain a certificate for CPR and first-aid training; updated at two (2) year intervals. A valid State of Florida Driver's License is required.

May be required to undergo specific medical and respirator fit testing, spirometry (pulmonary function) testing and evaluation, appropriate training in using applicable respirator(s) safely and properly, identified by occupation, subject to National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Administration (NIOSH), OSHA and industry standards. May be required to enter confined space which, in turn, would require respirator fit testing, appropriate training for confined space entry, respirators, and air breathing apparatus.

Education and Experience

Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of an acceptable equivalent diploma, including or supplemented by training in mathematics, electricity, or related industrial education courses.


Physical Requirements

Heavy lifting and carrying of 45 lbs. and over; reaching above shoulders; use of fingers; use of both hands; climbing (use of arms and legs); use of both eyes; distinguishing basic colors; distinguishing shades of colors; good hearing; straight pulling; pulling hand over hand; pushing; walking; standing; crawling; kneeling; bending; balancing; smelling; stooping; running; shoving; twisting. Wear restrictive safety equipment including but not limited to safety glasses, face shields, hearing protection devices, gloves, and hard hats.


Reasonable accommodation will be made for otherwise qualified individuals with a disability. Temporary modifications to provide reasonable accommodation do not waive any essential functions of the job requirements.

Environmental Conditions

Inside work; outside work; in heat; in cold; in high humidity; in bright sunshine; in dampness; in chilling conditions; with flames; with electricity; in dust; in dry conditions; with petroleum based products; with oils; with natural gas; on slippery or uneven surfaces; on or with ladders or scaffolding; at heights above ground level up to 50'; below ground confined spaces (ditches, tunnels, holes); with feet, legs, or hands in water; with explosives; with vibrations; working closely with others; working alone; with poor lighting; with poor ventilation; miscellaneous odors and fumes; with odors of gas; atmosphere or safety equipment used or needed air pack; hearing protection; hard hats; safety glasses; goggles; face shields, safety belts and harnesses.